Dispatch Ops Summer 2027 Internship

Dispatch Ops Summer 2027 Intern

Southwest Airlines Dispatch Operations primarily supports stakeholders in Network Operations Control (NOC). This role provides hands-on experience in airline operational control, strategic planning, operational analytics, and process improvement initiatives. The Intern will work alongside Leaders and operational subject matter experts to support projects that improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of Southwest's operation while gaining exposure to one of the largest domestic airline operations in the world.

In this internship, you will be expected to contribute to projects that support Southwest's operational performance while gaining firsthand experience working alongside Leaders responsible for maintaining the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of aircraft across the Southwest network.

Additional Details

• The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX headquarters facility during business hours.
• U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Support Dispatch Operations projects and strategic initiatives through research, analysis, and documentation.
• Assist with development of operational reports, presentations, dashboards, and performance metrics.
• Analyze operational data and identify trends related to network performance, delays, fuel efficiency, operational reliability, and other key business measures.
• Participate in operational briefings, project meetings, and cross-functional discussions while documenting action items and recommendations.
• Assist with process improvement efforts by evaluating workflows, identifying opportunities, and supporting implementation activities.
• Conduct research and benchmarking related to airline operations, operational control, industry best practices, and emerging technologies.
• Partner with Teams across Flight Operations, Network Planning, Crew Scheduling, Maintenance, Meteorology, and Air Traffic Management functions to support business objectives.
• Support change management, communication, and training efforts associated with operational initiatives.
• Prepare summaries and recommendations for Leadership review.
• Perform other job duties as assigned by Leadership.

Knowledge, Skills, Work Style & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collect, organize, and interpret data from multiple sources.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated curiosity and interest in aviation or airline operations
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience with data visualization and reporting tools is preferred.

Time Commitment and Pay:

• Required: Full-time 40hrs a week
• Must maintain a consistent weekly schedule during normal business hours at a max of 8hrs per day
• Program Dates: May 18 August 6, 2027
• $21-24 per hour, corresponding with progress toward degree completion
• Stipends may be offered based on eligibility and program criteria

To apply, you must submit your application and upload a resume for each role online at

Education

• Progress towards a degree, major, or minor in Aircraft Dispatch, Aviation Management, Aviation Science, Aeronautics, Professional Flight required
• Progress towards a 4-year undergraduate degree preferred
• To be eligible, you must be currently enrolled as a full-time student (as defined by your university) at the time of application and during the internship
• At least 3 semesters remaining at the time the internship ends is preferred
• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA at the time of application

Basic Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• You must have a valid U.S. Social Security Number to complete the full hiring process

Experience

• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office products, especially Word, Excel, Teams, PowerPoint required
• A passion/interest in commercial aviation
• Completed coursework in flight dispatch, or equivalent
• Experience using Excel, Tableau, or other tools for data analysis and presentation development.
• Familiarity with analytics, reporting, or business intelligence tools.
• Foundational knowledge of aviation weather, air navigation, Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), aircraft performance, and 14 CFR Part 121 operations.

Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.